AES E-Library

AES E-Library

Dynamic Modeling and Analysis of a Phonograph Stylus

There are many possible choices as to the modeling technique used to represent a mechanical system. The traditional method within phonocartridge development ahs been the electrical/mechanical analog circuit. The approach taken in this study was to mathematically describe the stylus system in terms of a series of continuous, flexible beams undergoing transverse vibrations. It is assumed that the structure undergoes sinusoidal motion and thus the wave equation for the beam has a known general solution. The boundary conditions are progressively improved to provide a realistic representation of the system. New approaches to stylus shank design are presented.